New Jersey Work First (WFNJ) Benefits

Program Description

The New Jersey WorkFirst-Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program is designed to help needy families achieve self-sufficiency. States receive grants to design and operate programs that accomplish one of the purposes of the TANF program.

The four purposes of the TANF program are to:

Provide assistance to needy families so that children can be cared for in their own homes

Reduce the dependency of needy parents by promoting job preparation, work and marriage

Prevent and reduce the incidence of out-of-wedlock pregnancies

Encourage the formation and maintenance of two-parent families

Note: TANF is sometimes referred to by state specific names.

General Program Requirements

In general for this benefit program, you must be a U.S. national, citizen, legal alien or permanent resident, and have very low income. You must also be a resident of the state of New Jersey.

New Jersey is one of only a few states that also provides cash benefits and support services to individuals and couples with no dependent children, through the General Assistance (GA) program. Thus, you must use the application process information below to check with the TANF agency in the area that you reside to learn whether you are eligible to receive financial assistance or other TANF benefits and services.

Your Next Steps

The following information will lead you to the next steps to apply for this program.